Straight Outta Boonville

The bard of Boonslick was no city boy. Born and reared in Boonville, Bob Dyer taught college English before embarking on a career that fused his passions. A poet, musician and historian, Dyer called himself a songteller -- a term that aptly applies to the traditional tunes and original old-timey ballads that make up his repertoire. When Dyer died in April at age 67, he left behind a hefty legacy (including his beloved Big Muddy Folk Festival) and a passel of friends and admirers. Many of those friends will gather at Duff's (392 North Euclid Avenue; 314-361-0522) tonight to pay tribute to Dyer by performing his songs and reading his poems. Among the guests: musicians Dave Para and Cathy Barton (with whom Dyer often collaborated), and local poets Howard Schwartz and Michael Castro. Admission to the event, which starts at 8 p.m., is free.
Mon., Oct. 22, 2007